Where to donate money, goods and your time.
Where to donate money, goods and your time.
The people of the Gold Coast are a proud, community-loving bunch. We love our city, the people within it and we’re all about lending a hand when someone else is in need.
Which more than ever before, is now. Our beautiful Gold Coast hinterland, along with many other areas of Queensland, are currently experiencing devastating bushfires (as you’re no doubt aware) and there have been many homes and businesses lost.
We’ve compiled a list of ways we, as a community, can support those affected in terms of monetary, goods and time donations.
The Queensland Fire Service and local fire stations have asked that all donations be taken to the designated spots so as not to hinder fire-fighting efforts.
Donations of goods and cash (via bank deposit) can be taken by Canungra Op Shop.
If you have non-perishable food or other items you would like to donate, they will accept those ready for distribution. If you’d like to donate money please transfer to the below account:
Lighthouse Community Services
BSB: 064793
Account: 10073085
Reference: Bushfire Appeal
For bank transfers, please also email the details of your gift so receipts can be issued and donations tracked – [email protected] (donations are tax deductible). ALL money donated will be used for those affected by the crisis.
Donations of cash for feed for livestock, wildlife and pets can be taken to Canungra Hardware – phone 07 5543 4780.
The Beechmont Fire Station are taking donations of food time, should you wish to volunteer – email [email protected] with anything you’re willing to donate and they’ll respond with a scheduled time to assist.
Funds can be donated at GIVIT here.
Let’s not forget the animals also affected by the fires – Currumbin Wildlife Hospital and Wildcare are both taking donations to help pay for medication and food.
You can also donate to Koala Rescue Queensland (for medicine and food for all animals) here.
Donate money for hay bales for horses here.
If you’re aware of any other ways to donate, please contact us ASAP.
Let’s stand together through this crisis, our community needs every single one of us.
Words by Kirra Smith
Hiking. It’s an acquired taste but if walking long distances for the sheer joy of it floats your boat, where better to indulge than the picturesque Gold Coast. Particularly at the height of summer.
There are many places to trek around outside the comfort of your Netflix binge zone and here are five of them (from a literal walk in the park to the mother of all hiking adventures, in that order). Don’t forget water bottles and snacks.
Apple Tree Park Tracks
Sounds delightful doesn’t it. The park itself is actually a possible starting point for entry onto The Great Walk but allows your tired bones a bit of respite if 54km of walking is slightly out of your comfort zone (yes, hi). You can pretty much walk as far as you like, for as long as you like and then turn around and walk back for a picnic in the park. Take healthy foods so your walk doesn’t feel like it’s in vain.
Start: On Springbrook Rd next to the Springbrook Mountain Chalets
Natural Bridge
No doubt you’ve (at least) seen snaps of the stunning little spot that is Natural Bridge. A literal rock bridge in the middle of the rainforest complete with a sparkly waterfall and so much beautiful greenery and fresh air and relaxing wilderness noises. It’s a stunner and a fairly cruisy downhill walk to get there (bit slippery on the bridge so watch your step) and through the trees. Obvs it’s uphill on the way back but you won’t even notice you’ll be so chilled out. Make sure you’ve got a camera to capture the magic.
Start: Follow the signs towards Springbrook and then you will see signs for Natural Bridge on Natural Bridge Rd
South Stradbroke Island
Saying you’ve circumnavigated something is, quite frankly, a dream that’s always been somewhat unattainable. Until now. It’s possible to walk the entire way around South Straddy and, while it might take you awhile (it’s 21km long and 2.5km wide) it’s well worth it for the breathtaking views. Walking from the western side to the east will only take you around an hour so that’s quite relaxing. All the way around will take you at least a day so ensure you pack provisions. Once you’re done you should definitely stop in at McLarens Landing (the pub) because a hard earned thirst needs a big cold beer.
Start: Take the ferry from Hope Island and start your walk from wherever your little heart desires
Toolona Creek Circuit
Keen for a day of walking? Neither, but there are some folks who might be. To those people we say, get on board the Toolona Creek Circuit. The first part will take you to Picnic Rock and along the Toolona Creek to the falls. From there you can detour to the lookout for a rest and gaze lovingly out at the Tweed Valley, Mt Warning, Byron Bay and Straddy (hi hiking friends). Sounds chill enough except the entire track will probably take you around seven hours too. Prepare before you go and if it gets too much, turn yourself around and head home. Good luck.
Start: Head to Canungra and follow the signs to Lamington Plateau, Green Mountain Car Park aka O’Reillys.
The Great Walk
Go hard or go home right. This one’s a doozy and you might want to carve out a good chunk of time for the 54km trek. It’s best to start at Lamington National Park and finish at Springbrook and they say to allow three days to complete the walk (sheer joy remember). You’ll skirt around the rim of the Tweed Volcano and pass through the ancient lands of the Yugambeh people. Maybe put in a bit of practice with the walks below before you set out on this little adventure, it ain’t for the faint hearted. Take plenty water, camping gear and ensure you’re equipped for all weather possibilities.
Start: From the Pacific Motorway, take the Nerang exit (exit 69 from the north, exit 71 from the south) and follow the signs to Lamington National Park.
Words by Kirra Smith
